Cancún Travel Guide: Where to Stay, What to Do & Tips From Our Time Living There

Cancún became a second home for us in 2025. Not entirely by choice, but thanks to my husband Saleem’s job. As a Station Manager at Cancún International Airport for four months each year, it only made sense that this would become our temporary home away from home (and honestly, not a bad one!).

Spending an extended period here gave us the chance to explore far beyond the beaches and resorts. We discovered authentic local spots, hidden gems, and sides of Cancún most visitors miss on a one-week vacation. From where to stay to the best activities, beaches, and restaurants, here’s everything you need to know.

Where to Stay in Cancún

Your accommodation will depend on the kind of trip you want: a luxury resort, a local vibe, or a quiet hideaway.

Courtyard by Marriott Cancún Airport

We stayed here because of Saleem’s work, and it quickly became home. The hotel blends traditional Mexican architecture with the modern comfort of Marriott properties.

What truly made our stay special was the staff: Adrian, Lizandro, Fátima, Moises, and Mauritzio. They weren’t just employees; they became friends and made our four months feel like family.

The hotel is about 15 minutes by Uber from Playa Delfines, one of the best public beaches in Cancún. They also offer a $95 day pass to the Marriott Resort in the Hotel Zone, which includes beach and pool access, plus food and drinks, perfect for a mini-resort escape without changing hotels. Click HERE to access the property.

Club Med Cancún

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive experience but want to avoid the party scene, Club Med Cancún is a fantastic option. It offers beach access, multiple pools, and countless activities. From kayaking and pickleball to archery and volleyball. The rooms are spacious and modern, and the vibe is relaxed yet upscale. Click HERE to access the property.

Airbnb Option: Above Plaza Las Américas

For Airbnb lovers, this spot above Plaza Las Américas (the city’s biggest mall) is a gem. It’s private, beautifully designed, and comes with a pool and outdoor seating area. You’ll be close to shopping, dining, and just a short drive from the beaches, ideal if you want a more local experience with plenty of convenience. Click HERE to access the property.

What to Do in Cancún

Cancún is an activity overload kind of place; there’s something for everyone, from lazy beach days to full-day adventures. Sometimes, having too many choices makes it hard to pick, so here are our tested and loved experiences.

1. Isla Mujeres

A short ferry ride away, Isla Mujeres is absolutely worth it. Yes, it’s touristy, but for good reason. The island is stunning.

You can either:

• Go on your own, rent a golf cart, and explore at your own pace.

• Or, join a catamaran tour that includes snorkeling, lunch, and an open bar. It’s a full-day (10-hour) experience, perfect for those who want a lively, social atmosphere.

I went twice and could easily have gone every day.

2. Chichén Itzá, Valladolid & Cenote Chichikán

For culture lovers, this is a must. Most tours combine these three stops in one unforgettable day. This tour in particular covers all three of these places:

• Chichén Itzá is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and an essential experience for first-time visitors to Mexico. Mayan architecture is breathtaking and rich in history.

• Valladolid offers a colorful glimpse into colonial Mexico with its pastel façades, cobblestone streets, and charming plazas.

• Cenote Chichikán, often included in the tour, is one of the most beautiful cenotes near Valladolid, perfect for a refreshing swim after sightseeing.

3. Swim in the Cenotes

Cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear fresh water, a geological wonder you’ll only find in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula.

The water is chilly but incredibly refreshing, and each cenote has its own personality. My favorites are:
Cenote Azul, Cenote Kin Ha, Cenote Dos Ojos, Cenote Suytun, and Cenote Calavera.

Each one is unique, and I’ll soon publish a separate post with directions and tips for visiting them from Cancún.

4. Xcaret Park

If you want an all-in-one adventure, Xcaret is perfect for both families and couples. You’ll find underground rivers, cultural shows, wildlife encounters, and water activities all in one stunning park.

Tickets start at around $130 USD, but you can often find discounts if you book early online.

Day Trips From Cancún

If you have more time, these are my top picks for nearby getaways:

• Tulum: Great for a 1–2 day trip. You’ll find beach clubs, cenotes, and Mayan ruins with ocean views.

• Puerto Morelos: A quiet fishing town between Cancún and Playa del Carmen, excellent for snorkeling or catching a boat to Cozumel Island.

• Bacalar: Known as the Lagoon of Seven Colors, Bacalar is absolutely magical. It’s a peaceful alternative to Cancún, perfect for relaxation or a romantic week away.

Tips & Things to Know Before You Go

After spending almost a year in Mexico, here are a few lessons I learned that’ll make your trip smoother:

• Carry some cash. Tipping (called propina) is customary in Mexico, especially for restaurant staff, drivers, and guides. Street vendors and local markets often don’t take cards.

• Use Wise for safe travel banking. We had two cards cloned (yes, even at a Starbucks!). Using Wise helps protect your main bank accounts while letting you withdraw cash with minimal fees. You can instantly block your card in the app and even add it to Apple Wallet for contactless payments. Sign up for Wise here

• Uber is your best friend. It’s not the cheapest option, but it’s safe, reliable, and available almost everywhere in Cancún.

Final Thoughts
Cancún is more than just resorts and nightlife; it’s beaches, culture, and warm people. Whether you’re here for a quick vacation or a few months like us, there’s always something new to discover.

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